Speaking to Harper's Bazaar magazine, she explained: "We became very close after my dad's death. She reached out and it was very sweet. We bonded on that."

Meanwhile, Diaz also praised British people, picking out actor Colin Firth as the epitome of "the perfect Englishman".

The 39-year-old said of the British: "I love their sense of humour and the sense of chivalry and charm. It's something that is innately a part of the culture - we don't have that over here, it's not the same in America.

"He is the perfect Englishman. Just enough of the self-effacing to a point that it's comfortable for other people, but also totally charming and engaging to where he makes you feel special. He's got that British honesty."

Diaz added: "I love London. I love the Brits, I always have. I have a weak spot for them. I grew up on Monty Python. I love Little Britain. My grandfather used to watch Benny Hill all the time."